Up to this time, however, we were as far from the truth in this connection as when we commenced, and I could do no more than await the arrest of Duncan, before the matter could be definitely settled.

I came to this conclusion on the assumption that all the parties thus far had told the truth, and it seemed to me that one or the other of them must certainly be mistaken in their original impressions.
This theory, however, yet remained.

Edwards and Duncan might have obtained the money, and being still under the influence of the liquor they had drank, and excited over what had transpired, had thrown away the valise, and at that time it might still have contained the gold.
In accordance with my instructions, Manning remained in Des Moines two days succeeding this, but was unable to learn from King that Duncan had mentioned the valise in any manner whatever.
In his attempt to obtain a photograph of Duncan, however, he was more successful, and with the assistance of Capt.

Wallace, he was fortunate enough to be placed in possession of a very excellent picture of young Duncan, which had but recently been taken.

This accession to his stock of knowledge was destined to play an important part in his continued search after the fugitive burglar.